Smith River Campground

For Oregonians seeking a serene escape into nature, where the gentle sounds of a river replace the urban hum, Smith River Campground near Reedsport offers an idyllic setting. Nestled within the lush embrace of the Umpqua National Forest, this charming campground provides a perfect blend of rustic tranquility and essential comforts, making it a beloved spot for families, anglers, and anyone simply looking to unwind by the water.

Smith River Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a gateway to the peaceful beauty of Oregon's coastal range. Imagine waking up to amazing river views, enjoying a leisurely breakfast with the backdrop of towering trees, and then spending your day fishing, swimming in a cool, natural hole, or simply relaxing by the water's edge. This campground creates an atmosphere where you can truly disconnect from daily stresses and reconnect with nature and loved ones.

What truly sets Smith River Campground apart, especially for local Oregonians, is its reputation for being exceptionally well-maintained, particularly its restroom and shower facilities. This attention to cleanliness significantly enhances the camping experience, providing a level of comfort that isn't always found in more remote or primitive campgrounds. It transforms a simple outdoor stay into a genuinely enjoyable and refreshing retreat.

The campground’s appeal also lies in its ability to feel private and uncrowded, even during busier times like holiday weekends. Its spacious layout and thoughtful design ensure that while you might have neighbors, you still retain a sense of personal space and quietude. This balance of community and solitude makes it a highly desirable destination for those who cherish both peaceful moments and shared outdoor adventures.

In the following sections, we will explore the specifics of Smith River Campground, covering its precise location and accessibility from surrounding areas, the practical services and amenities it provides, its distinctive features and highlights that make it so special, and ultimately, why it is an ideal and cherished destination for Oregonians seeking a genuine, comfortable, and memorable outdoor experience along the beautiful Smith River.

Smith River Campground is situated at 28593 Lower Smith River Rd, Reedsport, OR 97467, USA. This location places it deep within the scenic Umpqua National Forest, offering a truly immersive experience in Oregon's lush coastal range. While it feels wonderfully secluded, it remains conveniently accessible from major routes, particularly for those traveling from across Oregon.

The campground is approximately 45 minutes from the coastal town of Reedsport, making it an ideal destination for those who want to combine a peaceful forest retreat with access to the Oregon Coast's attractions. The drive to the campground itself is described by visitors as "nice," winding through picturesque landscapes that prepare you for the tranquility awaiting you. The roads leading to the campground are generally well-maintained, suitable for various vehicle types, including RVs, though campers should always exercise caution on less-traveled forest roads.

Its position along the Lower Smith River Road means direct access to the river itself, a key feature of the campground. This proximity to the water enhances the recreational opportunities, from fishing and swimming to simply enjoying the riverside views. While it feels remote, it's not so far off the beaten path as to be difficult to reach for an overnight stay or a longer vacation for Oregon residents.

For those coming from larger Oregon cities, such as Eugene or Portland, the drive offers a gradual transition from urban environments to dense forests and river valleys, setting the stage for a true escape. Its placement within the Umpqua National Forest also means it's surrounded by abundant opportunities for exploring national forest lands, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and simply enjoying the vast wilderness. The accessibility combined with the secluded feel makes Smith River Campground a truly convenient and rewarding destination for a peaceful Oregon getaway.

Smith River Campground offers a range of essential services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience, balancing the desire for natural immersion with the need for practical amenities. While not a full-service resort, it provides key features that significantly enhance a stay in the forest.

• Individual Campsites: The campground provides numerous individual campsites suitable for both tents and RVs. These sites are generally spacious, allowing for a comfortable setup and a degree of privacy, even when the campground is full.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, offering a convenient surface for meal preparation, dining, or simply gathering.
• Fire Rings: Campers can enjoy traditional campfires at their sites, as each spot includes a fire ring. This allows for cooking over an open flame and provides warmth and ambiance, though campers should always check for current fire restrictions before lighting a fire.
• Clean Restrooms: A highly praised feature of Smith River Campground is its very nice and clean bathrooms. This commitment to hygiene and maintenance significantly improves the comfort level for all visitors.
• Hot Showers: Another major highlight and convenience, the campground provides hot showers. This is a particularly welcome amenity after a day of outdoor activities, allowing campers to refresh and feel clean even in a natural setting.
• Potable Water: Access to potable drinking water is available, allowing campers to refill water containers for drinking, cooking, and washing, a crucial service for any extended stay.
• River Access: While not a direct "service," the campground's location directly on the Smith River provides immediate access for fishing, wading, or simply enjoying the tranquil riverside environment.
• Garbage Service: Designated areas for garbage disposal are provided, encouraging campers to keep the area clean and minimize their environmental impact.
• Accessibility: The campground is designed to accommodate various types of vehicles, including RVs, making it accessible for a wide range of campers.

Smith River Campground distinguishes itself with several compelling features and highlights that contribute to its popularity among Oregonians seeking a quality outdoor experience. These elements go beyond basic amenities, enhancing the overall enjoyment and memorable aspects of a stay.

• Amazing River Views: A consistent highlight mentioned by visitors is the spectacular views of the Smith River directly from the campground. Many sites offer picturesque vistas of the water, providing a serene backdrop for your camping experience and an immediate connection to the natural environment.
• Natural Swimming Hole/Waterfall: A significant draw, particularly during warmer months, is the presence of a "super cool water fall/swim hole right down the way from the camp." This natural feature offers a refreshing and fun spot for campers to cool off, play, and enjoy the river in a unique setting. It’s an ideal spot for family fun and a memorable experience.
• Spacious and Uncrowded Feel: Even when the campground is at full capacity, as noted by visitors during Memorial Weekend, it manages to maintain a sense of spaciousness and avoids feeling overly crowded. This is attributed to its large field areas and thoughtful layout, allowing campers to enjoy privacy and tranquility.
• Exceptionally Clean Facilities: The "very nice and clean bathrooms and showers" are a standout feature. The consistent praise for the cleanliness of these essential facilities significantly elevates the camping experience, ensuring comfort and peace of mind for all guests.
• Large Field for Games: The presence of a "large field for games" provides an excellent communal space for families and groups to engage in outdoor activities. Whether it's frisbee, soccer, or simply running around, this open area adds another layer of recreational opportunity within the campground itself.
• Peaceful and Low-Key Atmosphere: Smith River Campground is described as a "low-key spot" and offers a "great spot, nice drive." This emphasis on peace and quiet makes it ideal for those seeking a relaxing retreat rather than a bustling, activity-heavy campground. The gentle sounds of the river contribute to this serene ambiance.
• Proximity to Coastal Attractions: While nestled in the forest, its location approximately 45 minutes from Reedsport means easy day trip access to the Oregon Coast, offering a fantastic blend of forest tranquility and coastal exploration.

For more detailed information regarding Smith River Campground, including current conditions, availability, specific rules, or to inquire about reservations (if applicable), it is recommended to contact the managing agency. Smith River Campground is typically managed by the Umpqua National Forest, specifically the Reedsport Ranger District.

Phone: (541) 319-8200

Address: 28593 Lower Smith River Rd, Reedsport, OR 97467, USA

It is always advisable to call ahead or check the official Umpqua National Forest website, especially during peak seasons, holidays, or if planning a trip during inclement weather, as road conditions and campground status can change. This ensures you have the most up-to-date information for a smooth and enjoyable visit.

For Oregonians, Smith River Campground presents an ideal and highly suitable option for a memorable outdoor getaway, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities, and a peaceful atmosphere that resonates with local preferences for authentic experiences. Its appeal to residents across the state is multi-faceted.

Firstly, its location within the Umpqua National Forest provides a genuine escape into the lush, temperate rainforests and river valleys that characterize much of Oregon's natural charm. For many Oregonians, a deep connection to forests and rivers is ingrained, and this campground allows for an immersive experience without venturing too far off the beaten path. The "nice drive" to the campground itself is part of the Oregon experience, transitioning from everyday life to serene wilderness.

Secondly, the amenities offered at Smith River Campground directly address common desires of local campers. The consistently clean bathrooms and, crucially, the availability of hot showers, elevate the comfort level significantly. This means that even after a day of exploring, fishing, or swimming in the nearby hole, you can refresh and relax, making for a much more enjoyable and less "roughing it" experience. This attention to essential comforts is a major draw for families and those seeking a comfortable base for their adventures.

Furthermore, the campground's unique features, such as the direct river access, the "super cool water fall/swim hole," and the large open field for games, provide diverse recreational opportunities right at your campsite. This allows for a dynamic and engaging stay without the need to travel far for activities, which is perfect for weekend trips or longer family vacations. The fact that it feels spacious and uncrowded, even during busy periods, is a testament to its design and management, ensuring a peaceful retreat.

Ultimately, Smith River Campground is suitable for Oregonians because it embodies the spirit of a quintessential Oregon outdoor experience: beautiful natural surroundings, ample opportunities for recreation, and a comfortable, well-maintained environment. It's a place where locals can easily access a slice of tranquility, create lasting memories by the river, and recharge amidst the stunning natural landscapes that make Oregon so special.

Smith River Campground

28593 Lower Smith River Rd, Reedsport, OR 97467, USA